India invents method to isolate DNA from soil

Scientists at NFSU Goa have successfully developed a simple, low-cost method for extracting DNA from soil, expanding the possibilities of biological research.

A team of researchers at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Goa, has developed a technique for extracting DNA from soil using simple, low-cost instruments that can be performed in the field. The invention expands the possibilities of biological research in areas where high-tech is not available.

NFSU Goa scientists introduce low-cost, highly efficient method of extracting DNA from soil.

The new method uses common chemicals and readily available equipment such as centrifuge tubes, ethanol and buffer solutions, without the need for expensive machinery or specialized equipment. The resulting DNA can be used for molecular biology applications such as PCR, gene sequencing or soil microbial analysis.

The research team tested on many types of soil, from forest soil, cultivated soil to polluted soil, and all gave satisfactory results in terms of purity and DNA cloning ability.

The technique is portable and costs almost zero compared to current commercial kits, making it suitable for environmental monitoring stations, conservation projects, small laboratories or educational institutions in remote areas.

Beyond the environmental field, the technique has potential uses in archaeology, soil biology, and forensic investigations. The ability to extract DNA at a crime scene could aid in the analysis of biological traces in a variety of contexts.

The team is now comparing the method with commercial DNA kits to assess its accuracy and reliability. They also plan to share the process publicly and expand international collaboration, especially in developing countries.

Many experts consider this a remarkable step forward, as biotechnology no longer depends entirely on expensive equipment and modern research conditions.

Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/an-do-phat-minh-phuong-phap-phan-lap-dna-tu-dat-post1556472.html